If you are overweight, lose weight. This will help to decrease the amount of stress on your new joint.

Install safety equipment in the bathroom, shower, and on the stairs.

Prepare a bedroom on the first floor if possible. Climbing stairs will be difficult at first.

Talk to your doctor about any medications, herbs, or supplements you are taking. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your surgery, unless told otherwise by your doctor.

Anesthesia

Anesthesia will keep you pain-free and comfortable during the procedure. General anesthesia will keep you asleep during the procedure. Regional anesthesia will number the lower part of the body.

Description of the Procedure

A cut will be made in your skin. The damaged cartilage and bone will be removed. The remaining bone will be prepared to receive the new joint made from material such as plastic and metal. The artificial joint will be placed in the proper position. It may be cemented within the bone. The incision will be closed with staples. A drain will be left in to allow extra fluid to flow out.

How Long Will It Take?

About 2 hours.

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will block pain during the procedure. You will have pain after the procedure. Ask your doctor about medication to help manage pain.

Average Hospital Stay

This procedure is done in a hospital setting. The usual length of stay is 3-4 days. Your doctor may choose to keep you longer if complications arise.

Post-procedure Care

At the Hospital

Right after the procedure, you will be taken to recovery and monitored closely. The staff may give you:

Pain medication

Antibiotics to prevent infection

Medication that prevents blood clots

While you are recovering at the hospital, you may need to use a continuous passive motion machine, which is designed to:

Slowly move your knee

Restore function

Decrease swelling

Improve circulation

During your recovery, you will need to:

Move your foot and ankle to increase blood flow back to your heart.

Wear support stockings. These may help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs.

Work with a physical therapist. You may start the day after surgery. You will learn safe ways to move your knee and support your weight.

You will learn how to use a
walker,
crutches, or other support devices.

At Home

To help ensure a smooth recovery at home, take these steps:

Start working with a physical therapist once you are instructed to. The therapist will focus on balance, range-of-motion, and strength training.

Maintain a healthy weight after surgery.

Within 6 weeks, you should be able to go back to light activities and driving. You may feel a soft clicking in the joint when walking or bending. Continue to work with the physical therapist. Water-based exercises may help to improve joint pain, swelling around the knee, and range of motion.

Antibiotics may be needed before certain dental procedures or surgeries now that you have an artificial joint. This will prevent possible infections from entering the bloodstream. Make sure to let the dentist or doctor know that you have an artificial joint.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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